The Las Vegas Raiders are buzzing with excitement as former Boise State standout Ashton Jeanty makes an immediate and profound impact, showcasing the raw talent that made him a top pick. Ahead of the team’s preseason opener, Jeanty has already begun to turn heads, displaying a rare combination of speed, power, and agility that promises to redefine the Raiders’ offensive backfield.

Jeanty’s arrival marks a pivotal moment for the Raiders, who secured him as the No. 6 overall pick in the highly anticipated 2025 NFL Draft. His selection is a cornerstone of a comprehensive franchise overhaul, signaling a new era that includes significant leadership changes with new figures at head coach, quarterback, and offensive coordinator, all aiming to revitalize the team’s competitive edge.

Veteran Raiders linebacker Devin White has been particularly vocal in his admiration for Jeanty, emphasizing the rookie’s “God-given ability” that sets him apart. White highlights Jeanty’s exceptional versatility, noting his capability to execute sharp cuts and routes out of the backfield, seamlessly transition to running between the tackles, and exhibit precise footwork to exploit defensive gaps.

Despite his relatively compact 5-foot-8, 208-pound frame, Jeanty’s explosive playmaking ability has been undeniable. White recounted a recent practice session where Jeanty executed a significant run, remarking on how the diminutive running back seemed to “pop out” of nowhere, leaving defenders in awe of his sudden bursts of acceleration and elusiveness.

Before captivating the NFL, Ashton Jeanty forged an illustrious career at Boise State, where he consistently dominated collegiate defenses for three seasons. His remarkable tenure culminated in staggering statistics, including an impressive 4,769 rushing yards on 750 carries and an astounding 56 total touchdowns, cementing his legacy as one of the program’s all-time greats.

His junior season in particular stood out as a testament to his elite talent, as he amassed an incredible 2,601 rushing yards and scored 29 touchdowns. This breakout performance earned him national recognition, leading to a second-place finish in the prestigious Heisman Trophy voting, a remarkable achievement that underscored his status as one of college football’s premier players.

Special teams coordinator Tom McMahon also lauded Jeanty’s immediate contributions, praising his innate ability as a catcher, which McMahon considers paramount for a running back. McMahon further elaborated on Jeanty’s “really, really good run skill” and his unique capacity to “square all defenders up,” enabling him to effectively beat opponents with multiple maneuvers.

McMahon concluded by commending Jeanty’s impressive work ethic and respectful demeanor, noting that he “acts like a rookie and he works like a rookie,” a trait that garners significant respect from the veteran players. This combination of natural talent, collegiate success, and a professional attitude has positioned Ashton Jeanty as a compelling figure to watch as the Las Vegas Raiders embark on their new chapter, with high expectations for his rookie campaign and beyond.